In recent times manufactures constantly seek out ways to transform their global business operations across the value chain through process automation. To accomplish this, end to end integration of all processes across numerous operations is a pre requisite regardless of the physical location of the facilities and operations. Owing to technological advancements in process monitoring, control and industrial automation have substantially improved the productivity of manufacturing industries worldwide. Industrial automation focuses on automation thereby minimizing manual work in various industrial processes such as manufacturing or production processes.

The market encompasses various automation techniques such as robotics, IT systems, control systems and manufacturing execution systems among others. The most commonly used automation equipments include distributed control system (DCS), human machine interface, conveyer belt, SCADA, programmable logic controllers and conveyance systems. . All the aforementioned techniques play a significant role in reducing manual and labor requirement across numerous processes, cost of productions; reduce risk of production hazards and thereby improving the throughput.

The key drivers include rise in demand from process industries and developing economies coupled with need for better decision making. Industries today face an intense competition which in turn has spurred the market growth. Technology proliferation is one key driver to this market. Besides the industrial automation equipments are expensive and less flexible which can again hinder the market growth. Security issues also remain a concern for industrial automation.

Output of machinery production is a key driver to industrial automation market. In addition sustainability and energy efficiency, smart technologies and emerging economies are expected to drive the market growth.

Presently America and Europe owing to economic development are the largest market for industrial automation. The market has captured industries such as pharmaceuticals, chemicals, oil and gas, power plants, petrochemicals, pulp manager and mining among others. The Asia Pacific market is seeing a substantial growth owing to huge population base, favorable government policies, low manufacturing cost and cheap labor etc. Industry leaders are collaborating or merging with regional players to set up their business activities in this region. The key players in the industry include ABB Ltd, Adept Technology, Bosch, Honeywell Solutions, Emerson Electric, Schneider Electric, Mitsubishi Electric, Yaskawa Electric , General Electric and Kuka among others.